Travelling to Uganda?

Get the best Ugandan shilling exchange rate online 

Prepare for your excursion to Uganda and order your Ugandan shillings at Manor FX today. 

Our great exchange rates mean you’ll have more UGX travel money to spend abroad.  

Have your Ugandan shilling banknotes delivered securely to your home or office, or pick them up from the Manor FX bureau near Heathrow.

Manor FX offers fast delivery times and a fuss-free online ordering process for your Ugandan shilling travel money.

Ugandan travel money

Here are some useful insights about using cash and cards for payments in Uganda.

Where can you get Ugandan shillings?

Buying Ugandan shillings (UGX) in the UK is challenging, as many foreign exchange offices and banks don’t offer this exotic currency.

If you’re looking to convert British pounds to Ugandan shillings, we offer the same great exchange rates at our bureau de change in Datchet.  

Benefit from free home delivery on orders over £750 or pick up your Ugandan shillings in-store. 

Can you buy Ugandan shillings in the UK?

Yes! You can buy Ugandan shillings in the UK from Manor FX

Just keep in mind that the Ugandan shilling (currency code UGX) is a minor currency. 

It’s a good idea to plan ahead and compare exchange rates and availability across different exchange services to find the best Ugandan shilling exchange rate.

Save yourself a trip to a bureau de change and convert your UGX to GBP today.

Manor FX is your one stop shop for all your travel money needs. We stock over 160 currencies – more than anyone else in the UK. 

Make the most of our fast and secure home delivery and get your travel money delivered with Royal Mail Special Delivery.

Should I exchange British pounds to foreign currency before I travel to Uganda? 

Yes! Having local currency on hand is a good idea when travelling to Uganda. 

While you can exchange money upon arrival, it’s a good idea to exchange some GBP to Ugandan shillings before you go. 

This way, you’ll have local money for immediate expenses like transportation and small purchases.

What is the best currency to take to Uganda?

The official currency of Uganda is the Ugandan shilling, but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, especially for safaris, lodges, and larger travel expenses. 

It’s best to carry some Ugandan shillings for everyday spending, and if you bring US dollars, make sure the notes are clean and in good condition. 

Euros and pounds may be accepted in some places, but US dollars are usually the most commonly used foreign currency. 

How can I get the best currency exchange rates for GBP to UGX conversions?

For a better GBP to UGX exchange rate, buy your Ugandan shillings before you travel with Manor FX. We don’t charge any additional fees.

Order online in advance – it can help you avoid poor exchange rates at airports or hotels and make it easier to sort your travel money before your trip.   

Can I use my bank card in Uganda?

Yes. You can use your bank card in Uganda. Most places in urban areas accept major credit and debit card payments like Visa and Mastercard. 

However, Uganda is still very much a cash-based economy. It’s better and safer to pay either in US dollars or Ugandan shillings when visiting rural areas or taking a safari trip.

Helpful tip: Before you jet off to Uganda, or any East African country, it’s a good idea to contact your bank about your travel plans. Also, remember to check any fees that might apply for international card use.

Do you need cash in Uganda?

While places in Uganda accept cards, cash payment is preferable in UGX or USD. 

You can use euros or pounds sterling banknotes in the tourist areas in Kampala and near Lake Victoria, but at a worse exchange rate than US dollars.

Having Ugandan shillings on hand can be helpful when visiting smaller towns, local markets, or remote areas of the country.

Helpful reminder: Bring clean 50 USD and 100 USD notes from the newest series. It’s also great to bring small denominations of Ugandan shillings, as it can be challenging to get change for larger bills in some places.

Remember to convert your leftover US dollars and Ugandan shillings to GBP once you return from your travels.

Is it better to use cash or a credit card in Uganda?

When it comes to using cash or credit cards in Uganda, having a mix of both can be handy. 

Credit cards are useful in larger cities and tourist areas, making them convenient for larger expenses such as accommodations and meals.

However, having some Ugandan shillings is perfect for small purchases, local markets, tips, and places that might not accept cards. Cash could be a lifesaver, especially if you’re venturing into more rural or remote areas.

So, the key is balance! Use your credit card for convenience, but keep some cash for those charming, off-the-beaten-path moments.

How much money do you need per day in Uganda?

On average, budget travellers might aim for around 120,000-190,000 UGX, around £25 to £40, per day for basic expenses like food, transportation, and accommodation.

A mid-range traveller’s budget is around 405,000 UGX, equivalent to £85 daily. This is enough to cover your day-to-day needs, including a budget of 110,000 UGX, around £23, for daily meals, and 76,000 UGX, around £16, for local transportation.

Remember, these are just rough estimates, and your expenses can differ based on your personal choices. It’s always a great idea to have a little extra for unexpected surprises and experiences. 

How can I avoid ATM fees in Uganda?  

Here are a couple of useful tips to avoid ATM withdrawal fees in Uganda.

• Use a debit card with no foreign ATM or foreign transaction fees if possible. Your own bank may also refund ATM charges, so check before you travel.
• Choose bank ATMs and avoid airport or standalone machines whenever possible. These often come with higher fees or worse exchange rates.
• Withdraw larger amounts less often to reduce the number of ATM withdrawal fees you pay.
• Always choose to be charged in Ugandan shillings rather than your home currency. This helps you avoid dynamic currency conversion, which usually gives a worse rate.
• Check whether your bank has partner or surcharge-free ATM networks available abroad. 

How does tipping work in Uganda?

Tipping isn’t expected everywhere in Uganda, but it is appreciated, especially in the tourism sector. 

Restaurants, guides, drivers, and hotel staff may all be tipped for good service.

Is Uganda a cheap country to visit?

Absolutely! Uganda is a budget-friendly travel destination. Compared to many Western countries, Uganda’s cost of living and travel expenses can be quite affordable. 

Accommodations, meals, transportation, and activities often come at reasonable prices, allowing you to stretch your travel budget without compromising experiences.

Whether exploring stunning landscapes, encountering wildlife, or diving into the vibrant culture, Uganda offers excellent value for your money.

Ugandan currency

Banknotes in Uganda

The banknotes in Uganda are the 2010 series issued by the Bank of Uganda. Older banknotes are no longer in circulation. 

The Ugandan Shilling banknotes in circulation are 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000, 20,000, and 50,000 shillings.

The banknotes are thoughtfully designed, showcasing the National Independence Monument in Kampala and the country’s natural surroundings.

Coins in Uganda

Ugandan coins range from 1 shilling to 1000 shillings. The bi-metallic 1000 shillings coin is in use alongside the 1000 shillings banknote.

Uganda’s currency import and export regulations

You can bring Ugandan shillings and foreign currency into the country without specific limits. However, if you’re carrying an amount equivalent to $10,000 USD or more, you’ll need to declare it upon arrival.

It’s always a good idea to double-check these regulations closer to your travel date to ensure a stress-free experience with your currency.

Order online and get Ugandan shillings for home delivery in the UK 

Convert your pounds to Ugandan shillings online.

Get the best rates and have them delivered fast and securely to your home or office with Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed®. No delivery cost when you spend £750. No extra fees.

Or pick them up from our travel money shop near Heathrow. 

Click here to buy Ugandan shillings online. 

Selling back Ugandan shillings

If you have Ugandan shillings to sell, click sell at the top of the page to convert Ugandan shillings to pounds.

Click on ‘sell currency’ and select ‘UGX Ugandan shilling.’ 

We’ll pay great rates for your Ugandan shillings to British pounds conversion.

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